We understand that transitioning to life on a college campus—either for the first time or for a return trip—can be challenging.

Below you may find answers to our frequently asked questions. If the answer to your question doesn't appear here, head over to OneStop for more information.


Orientation Questions

Q. Is orientation still happening in summer 2021?
Yes! We are hosting Orientation this summer. Please sign-up to choose your preferred Orientation program through our website. After you RSVP for Orientation (and complete the Pre-Enrollment Questionnaire if you are a new freshman), you will have access ot the required Online Orientation Modules in your myWSU student portal. Throughout the summer, all new students are required to attend either a Virtual College Connection session or an in-person New Student Kick-Off Days event in addition to completing Online Orientation before the start of classes. Students are welcome to attend both a virtual and an in-person program, but are only required to attend one in addiiton to the online modules.
Q. Why do I have to attend orientation?

Students who attend orientation are more prepared to begin classes and more successful in reaching their academic goals. Orientation gets students excited to be a Shocker so that they gain the most from their college experience. Orientation also provides information and services in one place, rather than having new students try to obtain this information from each office on their own. Orientation also gives students an opportunity to connect with other students before the semester even starts. 

Q. Is there a fee?

Yes. See the list below for detailed fee information.

Freshman Student Orientation: $150 covers program costs, transition events throughout the first year, support from a Transition Mentor throughout the first year, and a textbook for First-Year Seminar.

Transfer/Adult Learner Orientation: $50 covers program costs and transition events throughout the year.

Spring Orientation: $50 covers program costs and transition events throughout the year.

Q. What should I bring?

Bring a photo ID, comfortable shoes and an umbrella in case of inclement weather.

Q. Where should I park?

A confirmation email will be sent to you with details for parking 3-5 days prior to your program. Follow the signs!

» Learn more about parking on campus

Q. What will my parent / guardian do while I'm at orientation?
Guests ware welcome to attend both the virtual and in-person events with their student. There will be a parent session during the Virtual College Connections sessions and as well as a session during the in-person New Student Kick-Off Days.
Q. What if I need to cancel / change my orientation date?
Always try to sign up for a day you know you can attend. However, if you need to change your orientation date you can contact the Office of First-Year Programs and we will switch your orientation day for you. Our number is (316) 978-5420 and our email is first.year@wichita.edu.
Q. I'm from out of town, what can I do in Wichita after orientation?
Welcome to Wichita! We are excited to have you here! Orientation programs will provide a full range of activities for you to enjoy. However if you would like to explore Wichita before or after your program, we've provided a list of attractions, food and additional resources to help better plan your trip to New Student Orientation.
Q. Do you have a parent's guide to student resources?
Yes. A large part of helping your student succeed is connecting them to valuable on-campus resources.
Q. What if I need to take a placement exam?
You can choose to complete the math or English exam in person or online. The Spanish exam is offered online.View more information on the placement exam process.
Q. I completed my orientation RSVP, now what?
You will receive a confirmation email to confirm your date and time with additional program information. However, prior to enrolling for classes there are additional steps you will need to complete.

A Look into a WSU Orientation Day


First-Year Experience Questions

Q. I am a student with a disability. How do I get accommodations at WSU?

Students with, and without, documented disabilities can contact the Office of Disability Services for more information on accommodations and other appropriate resources.

Q. How should I choose my major? When should I do it?

Students who are unsure of what to major in can enroll in classes at WSU as a general "LAS undecided" major. The Career Development Center helps students choose a major that’s right for them.

Q. How do I change my major / minor?

If you have not signed up for classes yet, contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to change your major. Students who have already enrolled in classes can change their major by logging into their myWSU student portal.

Q. How many courses should I take in my first year?

While there is no set amount of classes you are required to take your first year, it is important to keep in mind how your enrollment will affect financial aid. 12 credit hours is considered full-time enrollment and all students are required to complete approximately 124 hours to graduate.

If you plan to graduate in four years, you need to "think 30." By enrolling in 30 credit hours, or 10 classes on average, throughout each academic year (fall, spring, summer and / or short-term classes), you are more likely to graduate in a timely manner

Q. How and when will I register for my first semester of classes? How do I get an advisor?

Freshmen: after completing your RSVP for orientation, your first semester’s schedule will be built by a first-year advisor. You will be notified to confirm your schedule through your myWSU student portal. If you have questions, or would like to make changes, you can contact OneStop anytime.

Transfer / Adult Learners: after signing up for orientation, you will need to contact your advising center to schedule an appointment with an advisor. Schedules can be made prior to or following attending your orientation program.

Q. What if I took college credit in high school or was previously enrolled at another institution? How will I know what credits transfer?

Be sure to have all transcripts from high school and previous institutions sent to the Office of Admissions in order to receive credit for those courses. You can check how courses transfer into WSU.

Freshmen: Your first-year advisor will build your schedule to accommodate these credits. Any changes you need to make to your schedule can be done by contacting the OneStop office.

Transfer / Adult Learners: When you meet with your advisor they will be able to advise you on what courses to take based on the credit you have already fulfilled.

 Q. Where can I view my schedule of courses?
 Students can view their schedule by logging into their myWSU. Go to the myClasses tab, View My Schedule, Week at a Glance
Q. What if I took college credit in high school or was previously enrolled at another institution? How will I know what credits transfer?
 Be sure to have all transcripts from high school and previous institutions sent to the Office of Admissions in order to receive credit for those courses. You can check how courses transfer into WSU. When you meet with your advisor they will be able to advise on what courses to take based on the credit you have already fulfilled.
Q. I'm here, now what?
Now it's time to get involved! Be on the lookout for events through First-Year Programs, mentor meetups - emails from your transition mentor (TM), Student Involvement[BROKEN LINK] and  Intramural Athletics.
Q. How much time should I spend studying?
2-3 hours per credit hour. Going to college is like a full-time job. If you are taking 12 credit hours, you should be studying between 24-36 hours a week in addition to being in class for 12 hours, a total of 36-48 hours.
Q. What academic support is available for students?
One-on-one tutoring, subject specific tutoring centers, and Supplemental Instruction are just some of the resources available for students. Click Here to learn more about our academic success programs through Student Success.
Q. How do I find the books for my classes?
Textbooks can be found in student's myWSU account. Under the "myClasses" tab there is a box called "myTextbooks" in the bottom right corner. Enter the semester and course registation number (CRN) for your classes and a list of the textbooks for your courses will appear.
Q. How do I find an on-campus job?
The Shocker Career Accelerator has lots of information about on-campus and part-time jobs for WSU students. Students can also log into WSU's Handshake and apply for job's through there. 
Q. Does the university provide health insurance?
Health insurance is not required to be seen at Student Health however, students enrolled in six or more credit hours are eligible for insurance provided by United Healthcare Student Resources. For more information visit Student Health Services.
Q. What are Shocker Dollars and when / where can I use them?

Shocker Dollars can be added to your WSU Shocker Card, so it can be used like a debit card at all WSU Dining Services locations. You can add money to your card online or stop by the Dining Services office located in 235 Rhatigan Student Center.

» Add Shocker Dollars to your card online

Q. When do first-year students receive their tuition bills?
Students can expect to receive their first bill two weeks before classes begin. Notifications will be sent to your WSU email address when the electronic bill is posted to your myWSU. Bills must be paid in full by the end of the first week of classes unless you have previously set up a payment plan. Visit Accounts Receivable for more information on payment plans and how to pay your tuition bill.
Q. How do I get my student ticket to an athletic event?
Your free student athletic event ticket pick-up dates are usually scheduled one week before the game. Tickets can be picked up at the University Bookstore, the Heskett Center or at the box office in Koch Arena. Check GoShockers for the most up-to-date information.

If the answer to your question doesn't appear here, head over to OneStop for more information.